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In a psychological study on high density and overcrowding and its effects on aggression in children it was found that aggression in play areas was increased when playground equipment was taken away or made more scarce.
Whether in overcrowded circumstances or not, there can be no doubt that groups of kids play happily and harmoniously together if they are not bored or restricted. A lovely big piece of playground equipment goes a long way to entertain quite a large number of children at one time. Besides this, the kids are constantly on the move and getting plenty of exercise. At the same time they are interacting, socialising and learning. Most of all, they are having fun!
Generally playground equipment is erected outdoors where children can benefit from the fresh air and sunshine. However it is possible to assemble playground equipment indoors if for some reason it is necessary.
You should just choose a construction that doesn’t require concreted-in poles.
In 1907 US President Theodore Roosevelt commented on the undesirable practise of children playing on the streets and other unsafe places. He said:
‘…..since play is a fundamental need, playgrounds should be provided for every child as much as schools.’
We all know that in order to keep them inside the playgrounds, children need to be kept occupied. What better way than with sports for the older kids and playground equipment for the younger ones.
It goes without saying that all playground equipment needs to be safe for your kids. The construction should be sturdy and without sharp edges or points; the materials smooth and paints and wood dressings non-toxic. Wherever possible, guardrails, nets and other precautions should be placed to prevent falls. Only children who are old enough and have good co-ordination should be allowed to play on this type of equipment. Someone older and more responsible needs to be at hand to supervise at all times.
Kids love structures that link together swings, slides, monkey bars, rope ladders, platforms and cubby houses in an involved relationship, the more complex the better.
Ideally playground equipment should not be permanently fixed but should be able to be dismantled and moved from place to place. Even the feet of little kids can eventually destroy the grass and rub away hard patches that can skin little knees when they tumble. It is also perfect if, from time to time, you can add on extra components or take away pieces that the children get bored with. This keeps the interest fresh and the challenge high for them.
There are many reliable names among playground manufactured in- or imported into Australia. Among the well-known ones you will find:
KBT
Alleyoop Sports
Jump Sport
Rainbow
Most of these suppliers respect and protect the environment by the selections they make of the materials they use, and you generally have a choice of bright, cheery colours or more natural wood looks that blend in with nature. Check for strong construction joints that won’t give way after a lot of vigorous use by lively kids.
Finally, look for a supplier that gives you warrantees and good after sales service.
More and more people are buying play equipment for their backyards, even though there are lots of public kids playground equipment in public parks in Australia.
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